Virginia State Parks Hosting
MLK "Day of Service" Projects
![Visit Informational Site]() On Monday, January 16th the nation will come together to remember the slain civil rights leader, Martin Luther King. Monday has also been declared a Day of Service, a day to help our society and our environment through public service. Parks located throughout Virginia have planned a variety of events to commemorate a Day of Service on Monday, January 16th.
See the Festival and Special Events list, below, to see what is being offered at your favorite State Park. |
Martin Luther King Day at Sailor's Creek
Features Role of African-American Soldiers
During the Appomattox Campaign Samuel V. Wilson, Jr., Chief Ranger - Interpretation, Sailor's Creek Battlefield State Park
![Click to enlarge photo]() An under reported fact of the American Civil War Appomattox Campaign, that whirled through Southside, VA, in early April 1865, is the active role of African-American soldiers. Bringing this reality to light is the aim of a special MKL program at Sailor's Creek Battlefield Historical State Park visitor center on Monday, January 16th from 1 to 3 p.m.
This special program is hosted and presented by park manager, American Civil War historian and author, Chris Calkins, who has spent nearly 40 years learning and sharing the details of the last campaign of the American Civil War in Virginia.
Drawing on primary resources--letters, diaries, reports, and other sources--Calkins will highlight the role of Union troops (U.S. Colored) and scattered reports of African-American soldiering for the Confederacy, during April 2-9, 1865.
An open discussion period for questions and answers follows the talk. Members of the public are invited to bring lounge chairs to use in the exhibit hall where the talk will be held. The program is most suitable for adults and older children.
Both the state park and the Overton-Hillsman Farm House Museum are on the National Register of Historical Places and listed as a National Historic Landmark. On April 6, 1865 - the Black Thursday of the Confederacy - Gen. Robert E. Lee's Army of Northern Virginia lost 7,700 men, including eight generals, in the Battle of Little Sailor's Creek. This defeat was key to Lee's decision to surrender at Appomattox Court House 72 hours later, thus ending the war in Virginia. The Overton-Hillsman house was used as a Union field hospital during the battle. |
Unique Volunteer Project at Twin Lakes Zoe Rogers, District IV Visitor Serivces Specialist Virginia State Parks
![Click To Enlarge Photo.]() Are you wondering what to do with your left over leftover Christmas tree? Twin Lakes State Park Twin Lakes State Park has just the answer. On Monday, January 16th the park is looking for volunteers to help park staff sink Christmas trees in the park's lake. Submerged trees in the lake build fish habitats. Fish use these underwater structures for cover, foraging and spawning. Bring your own tree or assist park staff with submerging trees already dropped off at the park.
Volunteers should meet at the beach area at 2 p.m. For more information call the park office at 434-392-3435. |
Macaroni Kid News
![]() We think Macaroni Kid is a great partner for Virginia State Parks since they share great outdoor recreation opportunities with their readers and they provide a broader service to families by sharing all sorts of family activities with their readers.
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![Click to enlarge]() Just what is Macaroni Kid, anyway? Macaroni Kid is a free weekly e-newsletter and website that highlights all of the great things for kids and their families to do in different communities.
Under the stewardship of independent Publishers throughout Virginia, Macaroni Kid is poised to quickly become the go to source for all things family. "As a mom in Roanoke, I know how difficult it has been to keep track of the fun and enriching events and activities available for kids. I'm extremely excited to bring Macaroni Kid to our community and look forward to the opportunity to support the many cultural, not-for-profit, school and just plain fun things there are to do in this area." Macaroni Kid covers the spectrum of things to do with kids -- classes, shows, events as well as things to do at home, cooking projects, book reviews, arts and crafts and more.
Parents, grandparents, and caregivers all over Virginia can sign up to receive their weekly newsletter by visiting www.macronikid.com and selecting Virginia from the drop down list and then the specific area or town. Currently there are Macaroni Kid editions in Purcellville-Leesburg-Ashburn, Fredericksburg, Martinsville, New River Valley, Richmond, Roanoke, Virginia Beach, Williamsburg-Hampton, and Winchester.
Macaroni Kid strives to "entertain, stimulate, and exhaust" your kids. Visit a local Macaroni Kid site and sign up today so you'll never have to hear, "Mom, what are we going to do today?" again!
Through an ever-growing network of Publisher Moms, Macaroni Kid delivers weekly email newsletters and creates websites that provide all of the skinny on events and activities for kids and their families in communities across the country. Additional information about Macaroni Kid, LLC can be obtained by calling 631.726.1412 or emailing joyce@macaronikid.com |
Festivals and Special Events At times it may become necessary to cancel or change the date or time of an event. If you are planning to visit us based on a specific event you may want to call ahead to verify that there have been no changes. |
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Bear Creek Lake State Park 01/16/2012 Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. The third Monday in January is Martin Luther King Jr. Day. This national holiday has become more than one to honor a remarkable man of peace. The day has become one of National Service, when people should dedicate some of their time to care for the things that benefit us all. In the process of serving, we add content to our character. On January 16, 2012, BCLSP asks that you come to the Park to spend some time maintaining our public lands to keep the Park accessible for all to enjoy. Please contact the Park at 804-492-4410 to volunteer, or simply come by the Park Office at 10:00 A.M. to dedicate thirty minutes or a few hours of time to maintain our public places open to all people. Location - Park Office Phone - (804) 492-4410
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Belle Isle State Park 01/16/2012 Martin Luther King Day of Service 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. The Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Holiday is a National Day of Service, and a time for people to re-commit themselves to serving each other and our communities. On MLK Day, Americans across the country will honor Dr. King by helping their neighbors and communities. On this day, volunteers will help recondition picnic tables so that families can enjoy recreational opportunities at the park. Location - Maintenance Shop Phone - (804) 462-5030
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Caledon Natural Area 01/16/2012 MLK Day of Service Project 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Parks are for people! Our green spaces serve as a bastion of renewal for our minds, bodies and spirits. Just as we need to be refreshed so to do the park facilities. Spend part of your day helping park staff get the park ready for the coming season. Projects include working on the Visitor Center (painting and more) and working on our gardens and trails. Come by yourself or with a group. Please call ahead so that we may set you up with a project that best suits your interests. Location - Visitor Center Phone - (540) 663-3861
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Chippokes Plantation State Park 01/16/2012 Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Make a difference! Participate in a park wide clean up effort in honor of Martin Luther King Jr. Come to the Visitor's Center to check in with park staff and gather supplies. Location - Visitor's Center Phone - (757) 294-3728
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False Cape State Park 01/16/2012 Martin Luther King Beach Clean-up 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Join us for a day where volunteers participate in cleaning up ocean shorelines! Help keep our beaches beautiful and safe by picking up shoreline debris. At the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center you will find transportation into False Cape. Bring bottled water, gloves, sunscreen, and snacks. Reservations are required. No charge. Location - Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center Phone - (757) 426-7128
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First Landing State Park 01/05/2012 - 12/31/2012 First Landing Field Trips First Landing State Park offers access to a variety of habitats and both natural and historic resources. With a mile and half of beach on the Chesapeake Bay, swamps, forest, creeks, and marshes there is plenty to discover and explore. First Landing State Park offers hands on outdoor learning experiences for groups of all ages. All programs are tailored by the interpretive staff to meet the specific grade level needs of the participants. Please inquire how each of the programs correlate to the Virginia SOLs! Program fees are $10/hr. Location - First Landing State Park Phone - (757) 412-2306
01/05/2012 - 12/31/2012 Educational Outreach Can't make it out to the park, let the park come to you. A Park Interpreter can conduct a exciting interactive program on any of the following topics: An Introduction to First Landing State - Common Animals of the Maritime Forest, The Chesapeake Bay Watershed (with optional water quality testing activities), The History of the Chesapean Indians and the First Landing, The Civilian Conservation Corp and the creation of First Landing State Park, What Do Rangers Do?, and many more. Please ask for the VA SOL correlations for the program of your interest. Program fees are $10/hr. Location - First Landing State Park Phone - (757) 412-2306
01/16/2012 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service Volunteer Drive 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said "Life's most persistent and urgent question is, "'What are you doing for others?'" Answer that question the whole year long by becoming a volunteer at First Landing State Park! First Landing State Park volunteers are extra-special people who share Virginia State Park's mission to conserve natural, scenic, historic and cultural resources to provide recreational and educational opportunities and become good stewards of these lands, waterways and facilities for future generations. We would not be able to accomplish our goals without the help of the many volunteers who donate their time and talents. Join us on Monday, January 16th between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. at the Trail Center for our volunteer open house to find out how you can become a First Landing State Park volunteer! Location - Trail Center Phone - (757) 412-2320
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High Bridge Trail State Park 01/16/2012 Martin Luther King Day 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Park volunteers will work on providing improvements at one of the park's picnic locations. The site overlooks the Appomattox River in downtown Farmville. The plan includes installing a picnic table, a bike rack and a hitching rail. Other work will include spreading stone, mulching, trimming trees and clearing brush. Tools and materials will be provided but please bring your own gloves and drinking water. Please register as a park volunteer by going to http://www.virginiastateparks.gov. Call the park office for more details at 434-315-0457. Location - On Trail at Old Mill Building between new Farmer's Market and Main Street Phone - (434) 315-0457
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Holliday Lake State Park 01/16/2012 MLK Day Service Project 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Holliday Lake State Park will be hosting volunteers from local colleges, scout groups, and other civic organizations to do clean up, littler pick up, and other projects in the park. Call the park if you or your group would like to participate. Location - Park Office Phone - (434) 248-6308
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Hungry Mother State Park 01/16/2012 Martin Luther King Day 12:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Hungry Mother State Park staff will visit Emory & Henry College to present a program about the mission and history of Virginia State Parks. The program will inform students about Virginia State Parks volunteer programs such as YCC and Americorp. Location - Emory, Virginia Phone - (276) 781-7400
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James River State Park 01/16/2012 Martin Luther King Day - Roadside Clean Up Day 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. As most of you know, many people do not appreciate nature as well as the rest of us. They have no reservations about throwing trash out their windows, littering the roadsides and woodlands as they travel. On this, the celebration of Martin Luther King Day, we are going to care enough for everyone by cleaning the roads leading to James River State Park. We'll meet at the Visitor's Center and then depart from there. If you have a favorite pair of work gloves, bring them and we'll provide the trash bags and transportation. This is always a fun event, so come prepared to enjoy a nice walk and enjoy some beautiful scenery. Children are welcome, but will need to be closely supervised. Location - Parkwide Phone - (434) 933-4355
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Kiptopeke State Park 01/16/2012 Winter Beach Cleanup 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Help us keep Kiptopeke's beach looking great by helping pick up the trash and debris that the winter winds have deposited on our beach. The daily parking fee is waived for all participants. Trash bags will be provided. Location - Waterfront Shed Phone - (757) 331-2267
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Lake Anna State Park 01/16/2012 Martin Luther King Day 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Lake Anna State Park is offering a free self-guided hike on Railroad Ford Trail (see trailhead for specific brochure). The trail guide for all of Lake Anna State Park is available online at http://tinyurl.com/7kv8jn4 or at the park. For more information or to make arrangements for groups contact Lake Anna State Park's Visitor Center at 540-854-6245. Location - Railroad Ford Trail Phone - (540) 854-5503
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Leesylvania State Park 01/14/2012 Care Packages for Soldiers 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Help us let our soldiers know how much we appreciate all that they do for us. We would like to assemble 50 care packages for Operation Home Front( http://www.operationhomefront.net), a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping military personnel and their families. We will be asking for donations of different items like phone cards, baby wipes, tooth brushes, digital or disposable cameras, etc. For the full list please call the visitor center or email at leesylvaniavc@dcr.virginia.gov. Location - Visitor Center Phone - (703) 583-6904
01/16/2012 Martin Luther King Day Scavenger Hunt 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Join us for a day of fun while helping out the environment. Pick up a Scavenger hunt list at the Visitor Center and start collecting the trash that has been left behind in the park. Let's see if we can find it all! Location - Visitor Center Phone - (703) 583-6904
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Mason Neck State Park 01/16/2012 Martin Luther King Day 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Enjoy a self-guided hike along Bay View Trail. Search for wildlife at Mason Neck and observe some of the movements of the animals in the great outdoors (see trailhead for specific brochure). The park's trail guide is available online at http://www.virginiaoutdoors.com/parks/details/mason-neck-state-park or at the park. For more information contact the park's Visitor Center at 703-339-2384. Location - Bay View Trail Head Phone - (703) 339-2384
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Pocahontas State Park 01/16/2012 Martin Luther King Day of Service 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Doctor Martin Luther King lived his life in the service of others. Honor his memory by becoming a volunteer at Pocahontas State Park. This program will provide you with the necessary training to participate in the volunteer program for Virginia State Parks and is mandatory before you are permitted to serve at Pocahontas State Park. Visit: http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/volnteer.shtml to register as a new volunteer. Browse the list of opportunities to find one that meets your interests and signup today. For more information contact Perry DeMay at perry.demay@dcr.virginia.gov Location - Heritage Center Phone - (804) 796-4255
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Sailors Creek Battlefield State Park 01/16/2012 Martin Luther King Day 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. In a public presentation forum, Park Manager and American Civil War historian Chris Calkins describes the participation and roles of African American soldiers during the 1865 Appomattox Campaign. A question and answer period follows. Feel free to bring a portable lawn chair for use in the exhibit hall where the event will be held. This event is suitable for adults and older children. Location - Visitor Center Phone - (804) 561-7510
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Smith Mountain Lake State Park 01/16/2012 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Commemorate Martin Luther King Day and discover the spirit of community service at your local Virginia State Park. The Friends of Smith Mountain Lake State Park will offer a new feature at their Jan. 16th meeting. A business meeting will be held from 9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. followed by an exciting program by Lee Wilcox, the park's Chief Ranger, on volunteerism and the AmeriCorps program in VA state parks. Individuals from the community interested in learning more about our local state park are encouraged to attend both the business meeting and the short program that follows. Following the program refreshments will be served and guests will have the opportunity to meet members and learn more about the "Friends" activities. No Children Please! Location - Discovery Center Phone - (540) 297-6066
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Staunton River State Park 01/16/2012 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Join us on the Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service as we host a Trail Clean-up Day. We will continue to work on reopening additional sections of trail that were damaged by the April 2011 tornado. Bring work gloves, sturdy shoes, appropriate outdoor clothing, water, and a bag lunch. We will meet at the Visitor Center at 10:00am and we will work on the trails until 2:00pm. Any help will be greatly appreciated. If you are not already registered as a volunteer, you may pre-register here: http://tinyurl.com/bvrs4rg Location - Visitor Center Phone - (434) 572-3694
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Staunton River Battlefield State Park 01/16/2012 Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Cleaning the Kitchen - Volunteers gather to clean out the 18th Century brick kitchen at Mulberry Hill. Location - Mulberry Hill Phone - (434) 454-4312
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Twin Lakes State Park 01/14/2012 MLK Day Program 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Come learn about the great man behind the movement, and how the movement marched its way all the way into the history of Prince Edward County, AND make a fun craft to remember The Dream. Location - Beach Concession Stand Phone - (434) 392-3435
01/16/2012 MLK Day Volunteer Opportunity: Christmas Tree Sinking 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Did you enjoy your beautiful Christmas Tree this year? Want the joy to last and last? It can! Did you know that many fish species use fallen trees to hide or nest in? Bring your Christmas tree to the main office any day after Christmas. Then if you'd like to bundle up and join us we will be sinking them in the lake on Monday, January 16th, Martin Luther King Day. Meet at the Beach Area. No charge! Location - Beach Concession Building Phone - (434) 392-3435
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Westmoreland State Park 01/16/2012 Martin Luther King Day of Service 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Doctor Martin Luther King lived his life in the service of others. Honor his memory by becoming a volunteer at Westmoreland State Park. This program will provide you with the necessary training to participate in the volunteer program for Virginia State Parks and is mandatory before you are permitted to serve at the park. Visit: http://www.dcr.virginia.gov/state_parks/volnteer.shtml to register as a new volunteer. Browse the list of opportunities to find one that meets your interests and signup today. For more information contact James Wright at james.wright@dcr.virginia.gov Location - Visitor Center Phone - (804) 493-8821
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Wilderness Road State Park 01/16/2012 Martin Luther King - A Reflection 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Join Wilderness Road State Park at the Lincoln Memorial University's Library and Museum as we reflect on the life of Martin Luther King. The park will distibute brochures and information about programs for the upcoming season. Location - LMU Library and Museum Phone - (276) 445-3065
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All Other Events At times it may become necessary to cancel or change the date or time of an event. If you are planning to visit us based on a specific event you may want to call ahead to verify that there have been no changes. |
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Belle Isle State Park 01/12/2012 Home School Program--Winter Animals and Their Tracks 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Belle Isle is home to many wintering animals. Some are year-round residents and some, such as tundra swans, just visit for a few months. Learn about the adaptations animals make to adapt to winter weather. Students will learn how to track animals using replica tracks and scat, and by looking for signs. They will also have a chance to handle and discuss furs of several winter animals. Weather permitting, students will take a short hike outside to observe animals signs and to watch the tundra swans. Cost is $2 per student. Adults attending with their children do not pay a fee. Location - Visitor Center Phone - (804) 462-5030
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Caledon Natural Area 01/13/2012 Owl Prowl Hayride 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Explore the secret life of owls. The tour begins at the Visitor Center with a talk about the owls found at Caledon. After the talk we take the hay wagon into the forest to call the owls in. Whoooo knows what will show up! $3 per person $8 per family. Please call the park for more information and to make the required reservations. Location - Meet at Visitor Center Phone - (540) 663-3861
01/20/2012 Howl Prowl 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Coyotes can be found all over Virginia. Join us for a short indoor talk followed by a hayride. We will use a caller to see if we can get our local group to howl. $3/person or $8/family. Call the park for more info and to make the required reservations. Location - Visitor Center Phone - (540) 663-3861
01/21/2012 Star Parties on the Lawn The Rappahannock Astronomy Club presents an evening of deep space viewing. Check out galaxies, stars, planets and other celestial phenomena. Bring your own telescope or look through a club member's. The program begins 1/2 hour after sunset. Location - Front field near the Picnic Shelter Phone - (540) 663-3861
01/21/2012 Civil War Escape 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Take a ride back in time and explore the unique history of Caledon and the part it played in the Civil War. Samuel the farm manager will be your guide and will show you some of the common items and tools from the period. The Jan date will be in our van and the Apr dates will be on our hay wagon. $3/person or $8/family. Call the park for more info and to make the required reservations. Location - Visitor Center Phone - (540) 663-3861
01/21/2012 Winter Sunset Tour 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Early evening is when the park comes alive, as both nocturnal and diurnal animals are active. The winter sun produces spectacular sunsets on the Potomac River, so dress warmly and bring your camera. The tour will be in our van so we will have a chance to get warm between stops. Call the park for more info and to make the required reservations. $3/person or $8/family. Location - Meet at the Visitor Center Phone - (540) 663-3861
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Chippokes Plantation State Park 07/05/2011 - 06/30/2012 Educational Outreach Can't make it out to the park, let the park come to you. A Park Interpreter can conduct a exciting interactive program on many SOL-based topics using the EPA award winning, Your Backyard Classroom curriculum. Registration fees vary. Location - Off Site Phone - (757) 294-3728
07/05/2011 - 06/30/2012 Private Field Trips Chippokes State Park offers access to a variety of habitats and both natural and historic resources. With a beach on the James River swamps, forest, creeks, marshes, historic mansion and outbuildings, and agricultural sites there is plenty to discover and explore. Chippokes offers hands on outdoor learning experiences for groups of all ages. All programs are tailored by the interpretive staff to meet the specific grade level needs of the participants. Please inquire how each of the programs correlate to the Virginia SOLs! Program registration fees vary. Location - Chippokes Plantation State Park Phone - (757) 294-3728
07/06/2011 - 06/30/2012 Park Packs 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Want a little more for your day trip or overnight stay at Chippokes? Then a Park Pack is what you need! A Park Pack will help you explore the park on your own. Each pack contains binoculars, guide books, story books, birdsong players, and more. Park Pack themes include the Birding, History, Wetlands, Fossils, Wildlife, and Native Americans. Check out a Park Pack for up to 3 days at the Park Office Mon-Fri. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. There is no fee to check out a pack. Location - Visitor Center Phone - (757) 294-3728
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Claytor Lake State Park 11/15/2011 - 11/15/2012 Kids in Parks Track Trail Adventures Looking for ways to connect with nature, increase physical activity, and improve nutritional choices? Claytor Lake State Park has the answer. Shady Ridge Trail is now part of the Kids in Parks Initiative sponsored by the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation, the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina Foundation. TRACK Trail adventures are designed to help kids explore nature through the use of self-guided brochures. TRACK Trail adventures are fun, healthy and free. Within the pages of each brochure a different story unfolds. Brochures are readily available at the Claytor Lake State Park Shady Ridge Trail Head, so what are you waiting for? The Track Trail program is fun, because you can record all your outdoor adventures while earning cool Trail TRACKer Gear. Trail TRACKer Gear is designed to help you and your family have more fun when you explore nature. Since the gear gets better and better every time you TRACK a trail... you'll want to track as many trails as you can. Please visit the following website for additinal information and to start Trail Tracking. http://kidsinparks.com/index.php Location - Shady Ridge Trail Phone - (540) 643-2500
11/15/2011 - 11/15/2012 Claytor Lake State Park's GPS Adventures! Geocaching is a real-world, outdoor treasure hunting game using GPS-enabled devices. Participants navigate to a specific set of GPS coordinates and then attempt to find the geocache (container) hidden at that location. Claytor Lake State Park's GPS Adventures uses the sport of geocaching to help facilitate outdoor environmental education and recreation. If you have a GPS device all you need to get started is a brochure. Drop in and pickup one from the park Visitor Center. The current brochure is titled Geological Formations and Discoveries. GPS units are also available for rent from the park office. Half Day rate- $6.00 Full Day rate- $10.00 Location - Claytor Lake State Park Trail System Phone - (540) 643-2500
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Douthat State Park 01/01/2012 - 12/31/2012 The Bear Necessities (Douthat Wildlife Geocaching Adventure) The Bear Necessities is a multi cache located in the mountain woodlands of Douthat State Park. It is a three stage multi cache and instructions will be provided in each stage. The stages are in 64 oz. plastic boxes. It is possible to walk between the stages, but you may want to drive and park in the locations indicated in each stage. Search VSP Douthat Wildlife Adventure at http://www.geocaching.com for all the information needed to get started. Location - Park Office Phone - (540) 862-8100
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False Cape State Park 01/14/2012 Night Eyes and Night Skies 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Journey through scenic Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge to the heart of False Cape State Park away from city lights and traffic to observe the night sky and listen for owls. Look for shooting stars and other bright lights in the sky as you learn to pick out prominent constellations. Reservations are required. Call (757) 426-7128 to sign up. Cost: $10/person Location - Little Island City Park in Sandbridge Phone - (757) 426-3657
01/15/2012 Winter Woods Walk 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. Explore the maritime forest on this naturalist led hike at False Cape State Park. Identify coastal trees and shrubs and look for animal tracks in the sand. Reservations are required. Call (757) 426-7128 to sign up. Cost: $10/person Location - Little Island City Park in Sandbridge Phone - (757) 426-7128
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First Landing State Park 01/05/2012 - 12/31/2012 Bald Cypress Trail Self Guided Tour Can't make it to one of the programs or want to explore on your own? Learn plenty of information about the uniqueness of the Bald Cypress Swamps and the maritime forest through the self guided Bald Cypress Interpretive trail. Purchase a Bald Cypress Brochure full of fascinating, fun facts about the ecosystem and the history of the park. The brochure will guide you through the interpretive stops located along the Bald Cypress Trail. Brochures can be purchased for $.50 at the Park Office. Location - Park Main Office Phone - (757) 412-2300
01/05/2012 - 12/31/2012 Park Packs 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Want a little more for your day trip or overnight stay at First Landing? Then a Park Pack is what you need! A Park Pack will help you explore the park on your own. Each pack contains binoculars, guide books, story books, birdsong players, and more. Park Pack themes include the Chesapeake Bay, the Bald Cypress Swamps, Native Americans, Colonial Times, and Nocturnal Animals. Check out a Park Pack for up to 3 days at the Park Office Mon-Fri. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Location - Main Office Phone - (757) 412-2300
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James River State Park 01/14/2012 Pine Needle Basket Class 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Join us for this very special program featuring Jean Koon and her amazing basket making skills. We will use natural material (long leaf pine will make the sides of the basket, the bottom may be one of several different materials) to create beautiful and useful baskets. The cost for the day is $55, which will cover all material (if you have a pair of needle nose pliers you may want to bring them, otherwise we'll share). Early registration is required, as is prepayment. Registration for this program will close on January 2nd, and a check made out to "Jean Koon" will need to be sent to the park (address below). The check will NOT be cashed until the program takes place. That way if we have to cancel for any reason we can just return your check to you. Please call 434-933-4355 to make your reservations and for additional details. Don't miss this opportunity to create your own heirloom! Due to the time involved and the degree of detail, small children not recommended. Please mail checks to: James River State Park Attn: Jean Koon's Basket Class 104 Green Hill Drive Gladstone, VA 24553 No Children Please! Location - Park Maintenance Shop Phone - (434) 933-4355
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Mason Neck State Park 01/14/2012 Wild for Winter Waterfowl 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Join us as we observe swans, ducks and other migrating waterfowl that reside in Belmont Bay during the winter months. We'll have a spotting scope available for public use. Location - Meet at Visitor Center Phone - (703) 339-2384
01/14/2012 Lost and Found GPS Adventures 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Join us on this one mile hike with park GPS units. You will experience nature while searching for hidden caches! This program is most appropriate for ages six and up. Maximum of 10 people. First come, first served. Location - Meet at Visitor Center Phone - (703) 339-2384
01/14/2012 Majestic Eagles 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Take advantage of an outstanding opportunity to view bald eagles as they soar over the park. The program is free and open to the public. Watch as the eagles glide across the skies over Belmont Bay. A spotting scope and binoculars will be available, but quests are encouraged to bring their own binoculars and cameras. Dress appropriately for the weather. Location - Meet at Visitor Center Phone - (703) 339-2384
01/15/2012 Winter Ranger Hike 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. This guided hike departs from the Bay View Trail head and is for all people who enjoy nature. This hike allows park visitors to see the bay up close, as the ranger explains the wildlife around the park, and what we can all do to preserve natural beauty. Bring sturdy shoes, water and your camera. Dress appropriately for the weather. Location - Meet at Bayview Trail Head Phone - (703) 339-2384
01/15/2012 Wild for Winter Waterfowl 3:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. Join us as we observe swans, ducks and other migrating waterfowl that reside in Belmont Bay during the winter months. We'll have a spotting scope available for public use. Location - Meet at Visitor Center Phone - (703) 339-2384
01/15/2012 Majestic Eagles 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Take advantage of an outstanding opportunity to view bald eagles as they soar over the park. The program is free and open to the public. Watch as the eagles glide across the skies over Belmont Bay. A spotting scope and binoculars will be available, but quests are encouraged to bring their own binoculars and cameras. Dress appropriately for the weather. Location - Meet at Visitor Center Phone - (703) 339-2384
01/21/2012 Wild for Winter Waterfowl 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Join us as we observe swans, ducks and other migrating waterfowl that reside in Belmont Bay during the winter months. We'll have a spotting scope available for public use. Location - Meet at Visitor Center Phone - (703) 339-2384
01/21/2012 Lost and Found GPS Adventures 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Join us on this one mile hike with park GPS units. You will experience nature while searching for hidden caches! This program is most appropriate for ages six and up. Maximum of 10 people. First come, first served. Location - Meet at Visitor Center Phone - (703) 339-2384
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Sailors Creek Battlefield State Park 01/13/2012 Lee-Jackson Day 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Chief Ranger Sam Wilson, Jr. gives an indepth interpretive monologue of Robert E. Lee's important decisions and actions from Amelia Courthouse to Farmville, VA, April 5-7, 1865. He reviews the pivotal events that shaped Lee's ultimate decision to surrender at Appomattox Courthouse on April 9. The monologue is followed by a guided tour of the new visitor center exhibit hall, which chronologically relates the Appomattox Campaign events from the fall of Richmond to the Battles of Sailor's Creek, High Bridge, Farmville, and Cumberland Church, and westward towards Appomattox. Ideal for adults and middle-school to young adult. Attendees are invited to bring a lawn chair for the exhibit hall presentation that lasts 45 minutes followed by the guided tour. Location - Visitor Center Phone - (804) 561-7510
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Andy Guest/Shenandoah River State Park 01/16/2012 Winter Birds 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. We will be making birdfeeders out of natural materials. Binoculars will be available for observing the birds at the visitor center feeders and identifying the different species that live here during the winter months. Also learn how to draw birds and hear the different sounds each one makes! Location - Visitor Center Phone - (540) 622-6840
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Sky Meadows State Park 01/16/2012 Winter Trail Check 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m. Looking for a way to get outside and give back this winter? In recognition of Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Sky Meadows State Park will host a mid-winter trail check. Community members near and far are encouraged to brave the elements and get involved with our new Trailblazers Crew. Join a Park Ranger and a Trailblazers crew member on the back porch of the Historic Mount Bleak House at Noon for trail and safety information. Then, spend the afternoon hiking and taking in the winter wonders at Sky Meadows as you help clear, clean, and inspect the trails. Dress warmly and bring work gloves. Location - Meet near the Visitor Center Phone - (540) 592-3556
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York River State Park 07/19/2011 - 12/31/2012 Field Trips/School Outreach York River State Park offers access to a variety of habitats and both natural and historic resources. With access to the York River, forest, creeks, and marshes there is plenty to discover and explore. York River State Park offers hands on outdoor learning experiences for groups of all ages. All programs are tailored by the interpretive staff to meet the specific grade level needs of the participants. Please inquire how each of the programs correlate to the Virginia SOLs! Guided hikes, paddling, and wetlands programs are available. Fees vary. Call the park for scheduling and fee information. Location - Various Phone - (757) 566-8523
07/19/2011 - 12/31/2012 Park Packs 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. Want to enhance your visit to York River State Park? Then a Park Pack is what you need! A Park Pack will help you explore the park on your own. Each pack contains binoculars, guide books, story books, birdsong players, and more. Park Pack themes include Birding, History, Rivers, and more. Check out a Park Pack for up to 3 days at the Park Office Mon-Fri. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Location - Visitor Center Phone - (757) 566-8523
01/14/2012 Photo Walk for Waterfowl 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Our ranger and staff photographer will lead you to waterfowl habitats along Taskinas Creek and the York River. Some of the species found here include buffleheads, canvasbacks, golden eyes, and mallards. Don't be surprised to see adult and juvenile bald eagles as well. We will begin this walk at Croaker Landing and continue at the main section of the park. Location - Croaker Landing Phone - (757) 566-8523
01/14/2012 Eastern Virginia Mountain Bike Association Group Ride 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Put your skills to the test with the EVMA ( http://evma.org) on some of the most challenging trails east of the Blue Ridge. Marl Ravine passes through a rare shell-marl habitat and is a favorite of experienced competition and weekend riders. Beginner and intermediate riders can build their abilities on Laurel Glen and the new Bobcat Run trails. The EVMA is instrumental in maintaining our bike trails and promoting fun and safety in the sport. Visit their website for more biking opportunities. Location - Contact Station Phone - (757) 566-8523
01/14/2012 Getting To Know Us 2:30 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. New Time Are you new to the Williamsburg area? Perhaps you are looking for a location for a family or organization event. Take a guided tour of our day use area to see what our park has to offer. Picnic shelters, playgrounds, boating, and access to the York River shoreline are just a short drive from Virginia's Historic Triangle. Location - Contact Station Phone - (757) 566-8523
01/21/2012 Eastern Virginia Mountain Bike Association Group Ride 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Put your skills to the test with the EVMA ( http://evma.org) on some of the most challenging trails east of the Blue Ridge. Marl Ravine passes through a rare shell-marl habitat and is a favorite of experienced competition and weekend riders. Beginner and intermediate riders can build their abilities on Laurel Glen and the new Bobcat Run trails. The EVMA is instrumental in maintaining our bike trails and promoting fun and safety in the sport. Visit their website for more biking opportunities. Location - Contact Station Phone - (757) 566-8523
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Virginia State Parks Gift Shops
While visiting our parks be sure to visit our Gift Shops for many wonderful gift ideas. You can also find many items at our On-Line Store and in the Virginia State Parks Gift Shop located in our West End Richmond Reservations Center. Look for our sale items both online and in the Gift Shop.
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Become A Virginia State Parks Travel Writer ![Constant Contact 2009 All Star Award]() Share your favorite State Parks story with other eNews readers. Submit your story - with or without pictures - to Don.Byrne@dcr.virginia.gov. Don't wish to write an article? We also welcome any pictures you might care to share. |
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